OUR PHILOSOPHY

At CommonGround, we employ our extensive knowledge and expertise in the Landscape through a hands-on, design/build approach. By understanding and enhancing the many systems at work in your Landscape, we create gardens that stand the test of time.

CommonGround employs a common sense approach to Design and Construction. We strongly encourage the use of sustainable practices, and we work in tandem with the architectural style and specific characteristics of each site to create a balanced, unified space. By keeping up-to-date with local sustainable resources and practices, the result is excellent design and efficient construction in the spirit of Green Building.

Elements of Green Building found in our landscapes include water-wise planting, edible and medicinal plantings, efficient use of irrigation systems, custom drywell systems, rainwater collection and redistribution, solar access planning, use of compost tea and other organic fertilizers, etc. By recognizing budget opportunities and constraints for implementation, and following the mantra 'right plant, right place', considerable cost savings can be achieved in the landscape.

MEET THE TEAM

Chris Gilliland, Principal

Christopher A. Gilliland is a registered California Landscape Architect (#4597), a registered South Carolina Landscape Architect (#984) and a registered California Landscape Contractor (#860173). He received a 5-year Landscape Architecture degree and Fine Arts minor from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, where he was introduced to the Principles of Feng Shui, Ecopsychology and Permaculture, three ingredients that have greatly influenced his designs and incite a ‘Green Building’ philosophy. He has over 10 years of Design/Build experience in the Landscape. Having lived in 13 states and traveled within all 50, as well as extensive travel through 4 continents; his influences are wide-ranging and add to the unique style of his gardens.

Chantal Vo, Designer

Christopher A. Gilliland is a registered California Landscape Architect (#4597), a registered South Carolina Landscape Architect (#984) and a registered California Landscape Contractor (#860173). He received a 5-year Landscape Architecture degree and Fine Arts minor from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, where he was introduced to the Principles of Feng Shui, Ecopsychology and Permaculture, three ingredients that have greatly influenced his designs and incite a ‘Green Building’ philosophy. He has over 10 years of Design/Build experience in the Landscape. Having lived in 13 states and traveled within all 50, as well as extensive travel through 4 continents; his influences are wide-ranging and add to the unique style of his gardens.